.

   

 

 Wellness | MHC Home  

Wellness

Vitamin E and Early Artery Plaque and Peroxidation
  A new study from Naples, Italy looked at vitamin E from the diet (not supplements) and the amount of fatty plaque deposited in the carotid artery (measured by ultrasound) of 310 middle aged women1. They found an inverse association between vitamin E intake (as well as serum levels of vitamin E) and plaque in the arteries. This association was independent of other cardiovascular risk factors. They conclude that this finding "supports the hypothesis that low vitamin E intake is a risk factor for early atherosclerosis" resulting in heart disease and stroke.

Another factor in early causation of coronary artery disease and plaque formation is lipid peroxidation. Vitamin E and Vitamin C help block this damaging process. 184 nonsmokers were given 500 mg of vitamin C, or 400 IU of vitamin E, or both to see if they could help block peroxidation in living persons2. They found evidence that both vitamin C and Vitamin E were equally effective in blocking peroxidation of lipids. This gives evidence that foods high in vitamin C or vitamin E may be beneficial in primary prevention of coronary artery disease. This subject is very controversial at this time as to the benefit. However, by eating foods high in these nutrients, there is little danger of any harm and good evidence that they may be beneficial in other ways as mentioned elsewhere in this newsletter.

 

 

Reference

1. Iannuzzi A et al, Dietary anc circulating antioxidat vitamins in relation to carotid plaque in middle aged women, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2002; 76:582-87
2. Huang HY et al, Effects of vitamin C and vitamin E on in vivo lipid peroxidation; results of a rondomized controlled trial, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2002; 76:549-55


Making Healthy Choices articles are written by Don Hall, DrPH, CHES president of LifeLong Health with contributions from associated health professionals. Content is general health information from evidence based research. It's purpose is not to treat disease or take the place of advice by your doctor but to promote healthy lifestyles. Persons with health problems should contact their physician for specific guidance.

Copyrighted 2002 by PrevMedix LLC. All rights reserved. Do not make unauthorized copies.

Updated: 12/17/02